If you are tired of the problems that come with traditional toilets, you may be thinking of making the shift to a tankless toilet. How do these toilets differ from traditional toilets, however? And are they worth the investment? This article delves into the key features of tankless toilets and the pros and cons of getting one.
What Is a Tankless Toilet?
Most toilets have a tank so that when you flush, the water fills the tank from a tube at the bottom of the bowl. After each flush, water refills the tank, ensuring a large enough supply for the next time you need to flush the toilet.
A tankless toilet, on the other hand, connects directly to a water supply line. When you flush the toilet, water is released from the supply line and flows into your toilet. Tankless toilets are typically used in commercial settings, such as public restrooms.
In order to install a tankless toilet in your home, your home needs to have a plumbing system to accommodate it. Most older homes have an older plumbing system that can only accommodate traditional tanks.
What Are the Key Features of Tankless Toilets?
Tankless toilets have several features that separate them from traditional toilets.
As noted above, while traditional toilets store their water in a tank, tankless toilets are fed the water from a water supply line. Water coming from a water supply line creates a powerful flush and reduces the likelihood of clogs or an overflowing toilet.
Tankless toilets are water efficient as they use an exact amount of water each time you flush. This can help reduce your water bills.
They are also very durable, which is the reason they are used in high-traffic areas, such as commercial restrooms.
And because they do not have a tank, they are less likely to have the standard tank issues, such as leaks, water not filling the tank, or a damaged fill valve.
Tankless toilets also don't need to fill up again with water as traditional toilets do. This means someone can use the toilet immediately after a flush.
Tankless toilets can be designed to flush using motion sensors rather than with a handle. This can help with hygiene and prevent the spread of germs.
Finally, because toilets don't have a cumbersome tank, they save space. These toilets can be ideal if you have a small bathroom.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Having a Tankless Toilet?
Although tankless toilets offer many benefits, there are disadvantages to consider before you consider purchasing one.
Tankless toilets have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional toilets. It's important to also factor in the modifications that you will need to do to your plumbing system. Updating an older plumbing system can be costly.
Another factor to consider is your water pressure. Many tankless toilets are effective in commercial settings because they rely on the water pressure of the building's plumbing system. However, in a home, you may not have strong enough water pressure for an effective flush.
Tankless toilets are also noisier. This can be a problem if you have an en suite bathroom as part of your main bedroom.
If you should have a repair issue with a tankless toilet, they are costlier to repair than traditional toilets. Finding them for residential homes is also more challenging than finding traditional toilets.
Are Tankless Toilets Worth the Investment?
Now that you know the benefits and disadvantages that tankless toilets offer, are they worth the investment? Like many household appliances, it all depends on your needs and your preferences.
If you have a small bathroom, a tankless toilet may be a good choice as it takes up less space than traditional toilets.
They are also water efficient, and you may be able to save on your water bills over time. This is especially true if your home has frequent visitors or if you use your residence as an office.
Find out how much it would be to modify your plumbing system in order to install a tankless toilet. If modifying your plumbing system is beyond what you can afford, then it's not worth the investment.
Remember, too, that these toilets are costlier than traditional toilets. Again, if purchasing a tankless toilet is not in your budget, then you may be better off without one.
If you can comfortably fit a tankless toilet into your budget, however, check your building's water pressure. If your building has inconsistent water pressure or low water pressure, this may affect your decision.
Our Plumbing Services
If you would like to install a tankless toilet, 5 Starr Plumbing can help. We can inspect your plumbing system to see if modifications are necessary, and we can check your building's water pressure. Besides kitchen and bath remodeling services, we can also help you with water heaters, grinder pumps, drain cleaning, faucets, gas plumbing, and more. We offer competitive rates, and we are happy to provide estimates for any installation or remodeling jobs. We are based in Daphne and proudly serve Baldwin County.